Are ASCs subject to regulation?
A. Yes, ASCs are some of the most highly regulated health care providers in the country. Medicare has certified 85 percent of the centers. All states except one require ASCs to be licensed. The Missouri Dept. of Health specifies the criteria that Missouri ASCs must meet for licensure. Both the state and Medicare survery ASCs regularly to verify that the established standards are being met. In addition to state and federal inspections, nearly all surgery centers choose to complete a voluntary accreditation process conducted by their peers. ASCs that want to demonstrate a commitment to quality can see accreditation from one of four accrediting bodies. All four are recognizd by Medicare for their rigorous adherence to the highest standards of quality care. All accredited ASCs must meet specific standards that are evaluated during on-site inspections. As a result, patients visiting accredited ASCs can be assured that the centers provide the highest quality care.
